Leland+ for MBA
Popular on Leland+
Power Verbs for MBA Applications
A curated list of impactful action verbs to help you write stronger, results-driven essays and resumes that convey leadership, initiative, and impact.
Building a Strong Narrative
Learn a step-by-step framework for identifying your Kellogg “MBA Story”: your cohesive story across essays, resume, and interviews.
Wharton 2025-26 Example Essays
Example essays answering the latest Wharton 2025-26 essay prompts. Female candidate with government/defense background.
Building a Kellogg-Ready Resume
Transform your resume from a job summary into a leadership showcase that highlights collaboration, impact, and growth potential.
Resume Template
An editable template designed to help you showcase impact, leadership, and clarity across every bullet point.
Awards & Activities
A tactical guide to highlighting your leadership, impact, and global experiences in Kellogg’s awards and activities sections.
Kellogg Program & Academics
Understand the structure of the MBA program, including majors, pathways, and global learning experiences that define Kellogg’s academic edge.
Resume Example
A proven Kellogg-ready resume example.
It's October, But I'm Stuck on my Essays!
Feeling stuck on your MBA application essays? You're not alone, and I'm here to help you successfully get to a Round 2 deadline. Join me for an insightful session where we'll tackle the art of crafting compelling essays that truly reflect your unique story and aspirations. With over 15 years of experience admitting student to every top MBA institution in the world, I will distill the components of effective essays that my clients have written to help you understand how to make your essay powerful and memorable. Whether you're applying for a traditional full-time MBA, deferred, executive, part-time, or online MBA, this session will provide you with the strategies and insights needed to elevate your application. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge—RSVP now to secure your spot!
Free
Ben L. (GSB Alum) Podcast Feature
Ben’s career has been anything but linear, from working at McKinsey helping prisons improve rehabilitation outcomes, to diving into politics, to supporting chess startups, his experiences are as diverse as they are fascinating. After struggling through the MBA application process himself, Ben became driven to help candidates craft powerful, authentic applications that truly reflect who they are. In this episode, Ben shares: How his varied career shaped his perspective on business school and beyond Why storytelling is the key to a standout MBA application How he helps candidates align their applications with their unique strengths and passions If you’re navigating the MBA application process, Ben’s insights will help you focus on what truly matters and make your story shine.
Mapping Your Strengths to Kellogg’s Values
Assess your personal alignment with Kellogg’s environment and define how your experiences, strengths, and leadership style connect to its values.
Deferred MBA Panel: Getting Started Early
In this panel, expert MBA coaches Geri T. (Harvard Business School), Timothy F. (Chicago Booth), and Claire R. (Stanford Graduate School of Business) will break down what you need to know about applying to deferred MBA programs and how to set yourself up for success early. From understanding what top schools look for to planning your academics, internships, and extracurriculars, you’ll get insider guidance on how to build a competitive profile while you’re still in school. You’ll also hear strategies for writing compelling essays, securing strong recommendations, and avoiding the common mistakes that applicants make. Whether you’re a college junior, senior, or early-career professional exploring deferred programs, this session will give you the tools and confidence to start your MBA journey on the right foot.
Finance to MBA: Showing Impact and Proving Passion
Breaking into an MBA program from a finance background takes more than strong credentials—it’s about showing real impact and authentic passion. In this session, Leland coaches John N. (Kellogg MBA), Faisal K. (Booth adcom), and Kelsey K. (CBS adcom) will share how to differentiate yourself, connect your experience to your goals, and stand out in essays and interviews. Perfect for finance professionals aiming to make a powerful impression in Round 2.
Build a Cohesive Narrative
Understanding The Importance of Each Element In Your Application
Essay Strategy
“Why MBA,” goals essays, school vision essays
Adcom Insider Tip #3
How Top MBA Programs Actually Read Essays (HBS vs GSB vs Wharton vs MIT)
Targeted School Essays
Harvard, Wharton, MIT Sloan, examples
Letters of Recommendation
Who to choose globally, coaching recommenders ethically
LinkedIn & Online Presence
Strengthening credibility and recruiter alignment
AdCom Insider Tip #4
Position Yourself on LinkedIn Like a Future MBA, Not Just Your Current Job Title
